Non-revenue water reduction strategies for an urban water supply scheme: a case study for Gampaha water supply scheme

Abstract

Many urban water supply schemes face numerous challenges, including inadequate water supply relative to public demand, outdated infrastructure causing water losses, leading to substandard services throughout the distribution process. The presence of high levels of Non-Revenue Water (NRW) further exacerbates these challenges, coupled with limited availability of funds. NRW poses a barrier to sustainability due to energy and water losses. Therefore, this research aims to focus specifically on addressing the issue of NRW to contribute to sustainable water management. The research objectives include exploring water losses in the transmission and distribution systems, primarily attributable to leakages, and evaluating the performance of individual water pipes. To accomplish the objectives, the study employs the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to assess various factors contributing to pipe leakages. The AHP methodology enables the identification and prioritization of key factors influencing pipe leakages, providing valuable insights for enhancing the performance and maintenance of water distribution systems. By identifying the factors contributing to pipeline leakage, proactive measures can be implemented to prevent and control leaks at an early stage, thereby shifting from a reactive to a proactive approach in water management. This transition will enable the industry to detect and address leakage issues more effectively, leading to improved overall water management and a reduction in NRW. The research focuses on the Gampaha Water Supply Scheme as a case study, aiming to develop effective strategies for reducing NRW. The findings of this research will provide practical recommendations for policymakers and water management authorities to optimize water supply systems, minimize losses, and enhance sustainability in urban water supply schemes.